Treatments for a stroke

There are many different types of treatments available to help those who suffer from a stroke.

Ischemic Strokes

The first type of treatment given to stroke patients is emergency treatment either during or right after the stroke occurs.

According to the Mayo Clinic, clot-busting drugs are given to those who suffer from ischemic strokes within 4.5 hours after the stroke. This is done to quickly restore blood flow to your brain.

In some cases, doctors will insert medication directly into a person’s brain and at times they may need to remove the clot that caused the stroke.

To prevent future ischemic strokes doctors may perform a carotid endarterectomy or an angioplasty with stents.

Hemorrhagic Strokes

According to the Mayo Clinic, emergency treatment for hemorrhagic strokes involves giving medications and performing treatments to stop the bleeding in your brain.

The Mayo Clinic says rest may be required after the bleeding stops so the body can absorb the blood.

Later, surgery may be needed. According to the Mayo Clinic, surgery may be performed to repair blood vessel abnormalities.

Rehabilitation

Following a stroke, long-term treatment plans typically involve rehabilitation. These treatments can help patients regain any lost function and help them relearn how to perform daily tasks given any new limitations.

In addition to a physical therapist and an occupational therapist, the Mayo Clinic says a neurologist, dietitian, speech therapist, psychologist, social worker and case manager may also be part of a patient’s recovery team.

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